US Strikes Houthi Targets in Yemen: Escalating Tensions in Strategic Waterways

U.S. Military Launches Airstrikes on Houthi Targets in Yemen

The United States military has conducted a series of airstrikes targeting Houthi rebel positions across Yemen, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The strikes, which targeted weapons systems, bases, and other equipment belonging to the Iranian-backed rebels, were carried out by military aircraft and warships at approximately five locations.

According to Houthi media reports, the coastal city of Hodeida bore the brunt of the assault, with seven strikes reported, including hits on the airport and a military base in the Katheib area. The capital city of Sanaa also came under fire, with four strikes reported in the Seiyana area. Additional strikes were reported in Dhamar Province and Bayda Province, with the latter experiencing three air raids southeast of Sanaa.

These military actions come in response to recent threats from the Houthis to escalate operations against Israel and their claim of responsibility for an attack on American warships. The rebel group had reportedly fired ballistic and anti-ship cruise missiles, as well as drones, at U.S. ships in the strategically important Bab el-Mandeb Strait. However, these projectiles were intercepted by Navy destroyers.

Since the outbreak of the Israel-Hamas conflict in October, the Houthis have significantly increased their maritime aggression, targeting over 80 merchant vessels. This campaign has resulted in the seizure of one vessel and the sinking of two others, leading to the tragic loss of four sailors’ lives. Many of these attacks have been thwarted by a U.S.-led coalition or failed to reach their intended targets.

The Houthis claim that their attacks are aimed at pressuring an end to Israel’s military campaign against Hamas in Gaza. However, observers note that many of the targeted ships have little to no connection to the conflict, with some even bound for Iran, a known supporter of the Houthi rebels.

U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the information, provided details of the strikes. The situation remains fluid, and further developments are expected as tensions in the region continue to escalate.

This report includes contributions from Associated Press writer Samy Magdy in Cairo.